Kathy Dugan

Kathy is what is called a "River Rat" from Dunnellon, spending a lot of time on the beautiful Rainbow River growing up. She's spent 18+ years in radio news and more than 30 years as a journalist. She holds an AA in Mass Communications from the College of Central Florida.

Children with backpacks stand near a yellow school bus on the first day of school.
Weather Updates
2 months ago
Backpacks, Bells & Afternoon Thunderstorms: Your First Week of School Forecast

Ocala’s first week of school brings hot, humid days with daily chances for afternoon thunderstorms.

Golf clubs, shoes, balls, and tees on green grass at a golf course.
Features
2 months ago
Understanding your golf clubs: A beginner’s guide to improving your game

Learn how each type of golf club, from drivers to putters, can improve your game at Eagle Ridge Golf Club and other Summerfield courses.

Comedian Killer Beaz smiles in a car during a promotional video
Entertainment
2 months ago
Killer Beaz brings rescheduled comedy show to Ocala Civic Theatre Aug. 8

Known for Moonshiners and The Grand Ole Opry, the high-energy comic returns with his “Best Buzz in Town” tour.

View of Lake Weir with houses and trees along the shoreline under a partly cloudy sky
Community
2 months ago
Blue-green algae detected at Lake Weir boat ramp, health officials urge caution

No toxins found during July 28 testing, but DOH-Marion advises residents and visitors to avoid contact with water near visible blooms.

A grand, illuminated building with classical architecture, featuring white columns and multiple windows, set against a clear blue evening sky, with a luxury car parked in front and well-maintained greenery.
Local
2 months ago
World Equestrian Center offers hurricane stalls for equine evacuees: New request process introduced

Prepare for hurricane season with a streamlined stall request process at WEC – Ocala. Submit forms for storm-related evacuation as needed.

Florida Highway Patrol cruiser parked at night with emergency lights on
Local
2 months ago
Silver Springs man killed in motorcycle crash on forest road, FHP says

Florida Highway Patrol reports the 50-year-old lost control and was pinned beneath his motorcycle Wednesday afternoon in the Ocala National Forest.

Firefighters give toy helmets and safety items to children at Ocala’s National Night Out event.
Community
2 months ago
National Night Out returns to Ocala with free family fun and community connection

Join OPD on August 5 at the E.D. Croskey Center for an evening of community, safety awareness, and family-friendly activities.

Dark storm clouds loom over a green field in southeast Ocala.
Weather Updates
2 months ago
WEEKEND WEATHER: Heat index may reach 111 in Marion County as storms roll in

Ocala under heat advisory Friday; strong weekend storms could bring lightning, heavy rain.

The Villages-Sumter County Service Center building with white columns and a copper dome under a blue sky.
Local
2 months ago
Plans to widen C 466 and US 301 aim to ease traffic congestion in Sumter County

County officials seek public feedback on proposed intersection improvements to support growth and improve safety through 2045.

Mugshot of Roberto Maurizio Stracuzzi, a 56-year-old man with gray hair, wearing a striped jail uniform, arrested by Marion County Sheriff's Office.
Crime & Safety
2 months ago
Marion County sheriff arrests man for child sexual abuse online

Detective Ryan Paxton uncovers Roberto Stracuzzi’s illicit Snapchat and WhatsApp communications with a 15-year-old victim.

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